Loom Rooms: A Creative Ecosystem in Egbeda
Loom Rooms, a creative ecosystem in Egbeda, Alimosho, Lagos, is redefining how Nigeria's creative economy can thrive locally. Founded by Shola Bamidele, the space aims to answer a critical question: how can African creative talent flourish without leaving its community?
From European Inspiration to Local Action
Bamidele's vision was shaped by experiences in the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, and Malta, where creativity was integrated into everyday life—museums connected with education, film boosted tourism, and music supported local economies. “There was an intersection between everything,” Bamidele says. “Creativity wasn’t treated as entertainment alone. It was treated with respect, structure and long-term investment.”
Returning to Nigeria after working at Red Media Africa, he founded Da’Circles, an interconnected ecosystem uniting creativity, business, education, and media. Loom Rooms is one part of this vision, working with partners like Darling Hair Nigeria, Carloha, Africa Fashion Designers Awards (AFDA), and Warner Music Africa.
Why Egbeda?
Choosing Egbeda was personal. Alimosho is the largest local government area in Lagos, teeming with musicians, tailors, photographers, and entrepreneurs. “Why not Lekki? Why not Ikoyi?” Bamidele was asked. His answer: “Because the talent was already there.” Egbeda literally means “a place where communities are formed,” perfectly capturing the philosophy behind Loom Rooms: creativity grows faster when people grow together.
Building an Ecosystem, Not Just a Workspace
The space is designed around three words: Link, Unite, Multiply. It intentionally encourages cross-disciplinary collaboration—producers meet filmmakers, broadcasters meet designers, photographers meet fashion entrepreneurs. The goal is to create an environment where creativity circulates and strengthens every individual.
Measuring Success Through Transformation
Success is measured by transformation, not occupancy. Within a year, emerging artist Geexen received the PME New Wave Award. SVNTN D-I’s single Lagos Party reached listeners in over 70 countries, generating more than 20,000 streams. HoneyBelle Artists like HoneyBelle and Kacy Jackson have deepened their understanding of branding and intellectual property.
Broadcaster Uduak Faith Abasi now hosts programmes on Eko FM. Edmond Odey expanded into brand management and website development. Snow of Africa joined as a videographer and is now registering his company and preparing to train young people in Egbeda.
Playing the Long Game
Bamidele believes Nigeria has proven it can produce globally recognised artists. The next challenge is building globally respected institutions. Loom Rooms invests in mentorship, business literacy, intellectual property, and community—the less glamorous work that sustains careers for decades.
“Creativity shouldn’t have a postcode,” Bamidele says. The real bet is that Africa can build institutions that turn creativity into businesses, businesses into community strength, and communities into lasting prosperity.
